About Paul Schat - Master Baker

Meet Paul Schat: Master Baker & Owner

Paul Schat is a master baker with an extraordinary 59-year journey in the world of artisan baking, beginning his apprenticeship at just 8 years old. Today, he brings unparalleled expertise and a rich family heritage to Carson City, Nevada, where he continues the Schat family’s legendary baking tradition that began in Holland in 1890.

Paul’s Remarkable Journey

A Unique Legacy

Paul is the only grandchild among 26 who had the privilege of working side-by-side with his grandfather, “Papa” Jack Schat—a master baker who not only baked for the Queen of Holland but also risked his life hiding Jews during World War II as part of the Dutch Underground.

World-Class Training

Paul’s expertise comes from the finest institutions:

• European Training - Traditional techniques passed down through generations
• CIA (Culinary Institute of America) - Advanced culinary arts education
• Cordon Bleu Classes - French pastry and baking mastery
• 59 Years of Experience - Starting at age 8, learning from master bakers

Read our complete family story → - Discover the remarkable journey of “Papa” Jack Schat, from his wartime heroism in the Dutch Underground to building a baking empire in Bishop, California.

* Items shown are subject to availability. We rotate our varieties and quantities are limited.

Paul’s Baking Empire: A Life’s Work

Early Success - Mammoth Lakes

At just 23 years old, Paul opened his first bakery in Mammoth Lakes, California. This bakery continues to operate successfully today under his step-mother Shea Schat, testament to the solid foundation Paul built.

Expanding the Legacy - Family Bakeries

Paul later acquired a bakery in Napa Valley from his cousin Jan Schat, further expanding the family’s baking presence throughout California. Today, the Schat family bakery tradition continues with Paul’s son Isaiah and Cheyenne Schat operating locations in Carson City, Minden NV, Mammoth Lakes, Washoe Valley, and Ukiah California.

Carson City - 16 Years of Excellence

For the past 16 years, Paul has been operating in Carson City, bringing his European baking philosophy and decades of expertise to Nevada’s capital city. Before Carson City, Paul operated in Minden, Nevada, continuing the family tradition of serving local communities with exceptional baked goods.

The Schat Family Today

The Schat family baking tradition continues through multiple generations, with family members operating independent bakeries throughout Nevada and California. Each bakery maintains the high standards and artisanal techniques passed down from “Papa” Jack while serving their local communities with distinction.

Paul Schat’s Bakery - Carson City, Nevada

Paul Schat continues the family tradition here in Carson City, bringing 59 years of baking experience and formal training from the Culinary Institute of America, the Cordon Bleu, and European apprenticeships. For the past 16 years, Paul’s bakery has been a beloved institution in Carson City, having previously operated in Minden, Nevada.

Anneke Schat - Washoe Valley, Nevada

Paul’s sister Anneke Schat operates her own bakery in nearby Washoe Valley, Nevada, continuing the family’s commitment to artisanal baking and serving the local community with traditional European-style breads and pastries.

Shea Schat - Mammoth Lakes, California

The family tradition also continues in Mammoth Lakes, California, where Shea Schat operates another independent bakery, maintaining the high standards of quality and craftsmanship that have defined the Schat name for generations.

Please note: Each Schat family bakery operates independently. While we share the same proud heritage and commitment to quality, each location is individually owned and operated, serving their respective communities with their own unique specialties and local favorites.

Paul’s European Baking Philosophy

Premium Sourcing Philosophy

Paul maintains direct relationships with suppliers:

• USA and Canada butter - Only the finest dairy products
• Harmon Beckner Farms, Modesto - Direct farm-to-bakery sourcing for almond paste
• No middleman approach - Direct sourcing ensures quality and freshness
• European ingredient challenges - Navigating tariffs to maintain authentic flavors

The Legendary Sheepherder Bread

Basque Origins

Under Paul’s expert guidance, our signature Sheepherder Bread continues the tradition that made the Schat name famous. Originally created for Basque shepherds, this distinctive round loaf represents everything Paul stands for:

• Traditional Techniques - Hand-shaped using methods passed down through generations
• Natural Fermentation - Slow development for complex flavors
• No Preservatives - European philosophy of fresh consumption
• Regional Icon - Drawing customers from across Nevada and beyond

This legendary bread embodies Paul’s commitment to preserving authentic European baking traditions while serving the American West.

Paul’s Daily Commitment

Master Baker at Work

Every morning at 4:00 AM, Paul and his skilled team begin the day’s baking. With nearly six decades of experience, Paul personally oversees production, ensuring every loaf meets the exacting standards he learned from his grandfather.

Our Dedicated Baking Team

Paul works alongside a talented team of dedicated bakers:

• Patricio - Head baker with 39 years working alongside Paul, bringing decades of experience and expertise
• Hortencia - Our skilled pastry and cookie baker, crafting delicate treats with precision and care
• Marco - 16 years of dedicated service, specializing in bread production
• Jolfer - 4 years with the team, continuing to learn and master the craft

Together with our wonderful sales team, we create a warm, welcoming environment where craftsmanship and community come together.

Teaching the Craft

Paul believes in sharing knowledge. He works closely with his team, passing on the techniques and philosophy that have made the Schat name synonymous with excellence in baking.

Community Connection

After 16 years in Carson City, Paul has become an integral part of the community, building lasting relationships with customers who appreciate authentic, handcrafted baked goods.

Experience Paul’s Mastery

When you visit Paul Schat’s Bakery & Deli, you’re not just buying bread—you’re experiencing the culmination of 59 years of dedication, world-class training, and a family legacy that spans continents and generations.

From our signature Sheepherder Bread to delicate European pastries, every item reflects Paul’s unwavering commitment to quality, tradition, and the simple joy of a perfect baked good.

Come meet Paul and taste the difference that a true master baker makes.